Buy Zovirax
Zovirax

$0.46
Category
Active Ingredient
Delivery
Airmail (14-21 days) | EMS trackable (5-9 days)
Prescription
Issued on site / Included
Availability
In Stock
Product is shipped in a fully discreet envelope with no content disclosure, including all required documentation inside

Zovirax Properties

Active Ingredients
Primary Category
Pharmacological Class
Viral DNA Polymerase Inhibitor
Contraindications
Minor Side Effects
Moderate Side Effects
Dosage Forms
Tablets, Capsules, Oral Suspension, Cream, Ointment, Intravenous Solution
Administration Route
Oral
Mechanism of Action
Works by stopping the herpes virus from making copies of its DNA, which prevents the virus from spreading and helps clear infections.
Prescription Status
Rx
Manufacturer
GlaxoSmithKline
Patient Summary
An antiviral medication used to treat various infections caused by the herpes virus, such as cold sores, genital herpes, and shingles.
Onset Time
Absorption within 1 to 2 hours
Duration
8 hours
Storage Instructions
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat
Age Restrictions
Approved for use in children for certain conditions
Pregnancy Use
Consult doctor before use during pregnancy
Alternative Drugs

About Zovirax

Generic Zovirax (Acyclovir) is a widely available oral antiviral pill used to treat a range of viral infections, most notably herpes simplex virus (HSV) outbreaks and shingles caused by varicella-zoster virus. The medication contains the active ingredient acyclovir, a nucleoside analogue that interferes with viral DNA replication. In Singapore, Generic Zovirax is prescribed for adult patients to shorten lesion healing time, reduce symptom severity, and limit viral shedding. While its primary indication is for HSV and VZV, clinicians may consider it for other herpes-related conditions when supported by clinical judgment.

What is Generic Zovirax (Acyclovir)?

Generic Zovirax (Acyclovir) belongs to the class of antiviral agents called nucleoside analogues. It received approval from the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) of Singapore in the early -s and is classified as a prescription-only medication. The product is supplied in tablet form, typically in strengths of 200 mg, 400 mg, and 800 mg, allowing doctors to tailor dosing to the severity of infection and the patient’s renal function. As a generic formulation, it is bio-equivalent to the branded version and offers a cost-effective alternative without compromising therapeutic efficacy.

How Zovirax Works

Zovirax contains acyclovir, which mimics the natural nucleoside deoxyguanosine. After oral absorption, the drug is taken up by infected cells and phosphorylated by viral thymidine kinase-a virus-specific enzyme. This initial phosphorylation converts acyclovir into acyclovir-monophosphate, after which cellular kinases add two more phosphate groups, forming acyclovir-triphosphate. The triphosphate competes with deoxyguanosine-triphosphate for incorporation into viral DNA. Once incorporated, it acts as a chain terminator, halting DNA synthesis and preventing viral replication. Because phosphorylation depends on the viral enzyme, healthy cells are largely spared, which explains the drug’s favorable safety profile. After oral dosing, peak plasma concentrations occur within 1-2 hours; the drug’s half-life is about 2-3 hours in individuals with normal kidney function, and it is eliminated unchanged by the kidneys.

Why Zovirax Is Used for Viral Infection Treatment

  • Herpes Simplex Labial & Genital Outbreaks Why effective: By stopping viral DNA synthesis, acyclovir reduces lesion formation and viral shedding, leading to faster healing and less transmission risk. Guideline position: First-line oral therapy for recurrent HSV infections in adults, as recommended by the Singapore Ministry of Health guidelines. Comparison: Similar efficacy to valacyclovir, but Zovirax is often less expensive for comparable dosing regimens.

  • Varicella-Zoster (Shingles) Why effective: Early viral replication drives the painful rash; acyclovir limits this replication, decreasing pain duration and post-herpetic neuralgia incidence. Guideline position: Recommended within 72 hours of rash onset for immunocompetent adults; higher doses (800 mg five times daily) are advised for severe cases. Comparison: Famciclovir and valacyclovir have more convenient dosing schedules, but Zovirax remains a viable option when cost is a concern.

  • Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus Why effective: Prompt viral suppression protects ocular structures from inflammation and scarring. Guideline position: Oral acyclovir combined with topical antiviral therapy is endorsed for mild to moderate eye involvement. Comparison: Higher bioavailability drugs may improve adherence, yet Zovirax’s proven safety makes it a reliable choice for patients with renal monitoring.

Off-Label and Investigational Uses of Zovirax

Evidence from small-scale studies suggests acyclovir may have activity against cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in immunocompromised patients, and limited data explore its role in Epstein-Barr virus-associated oral hairy leukoplakia. However, these indications lack robust RCT support and are not approved by the HSA in Singapore. Off-label use should only be considered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider.

Is Zovirax Right for You?

Zovirax is appropriate for most immunocompetent adults with acute HSV or VZV infections who can adhere to the prescribed dosing schedule. Patients with renal impairment require dose adjustments because the drug is cleared unchanged by the kidneys; clinicians typically reduce the dose or extend the dosing interval in such cases. Pregnant women in the first trimester should discuss risks and benefits, as acyclovir is classified as Pregnancy Category B in Singapore-animal studies show no fetal harm, but human data are limited. Elderly patients may experience slower clearance, warranting careful monitoring. Individuals with a history of hypersensitivity to acyclovir or other nucleoside analogues should avoid the medication.

Taking Zovirax Effectively

  • Timing: Begin therapy as soon as symptoms appear-or within 72 hours of rash onset for shingles-to maximise viral suppression.
  • Food interactions: Zovirax can be taken with or without food; however, high-fat meals may slightly delay absorption, which is clinically insignificant.
  • Adherence: For the 800 mg five-times-daily regimen, setting alarms or using a medication-tracking app can help maintain consistent plasma levels.
  • Missed dose: If a dose is missed within 4 hours, take it as soon as remembered; otherwise, skip and resume the regular schedule-do not double-dose.
  • Travel tips: Carry the medication in its original labeled container, and keep a copy of the prescription to facilitate customs clearance.

Understanding Side Effects and How to Manage Them

Most adverse events stem from the drug’s renal excretion and its impact on rapidly dividing cells.

  • Common, mild effects: Nausea, headache, and fatigue occur in up to 10 % of patients. These symptoms often reflect transient plasma-level fluctuations; taking the pill with food or a full glass of water can alleviate nausea.
  • Renal considerations: Elevated serum creatinine may appear in patients with pre-existing kidney disease. Monitoring renal function before and during prolonged therapy is advisable; dose reduction mitigates this risk.
  • Neurological signs: Rarely, high concentrations can provoke confusion, tremor, or seizures, especially in the elderly or those with renal failure. Prompt medical evaluation is warranted if neuro-psychological symptoms arise.
  • Dermatologic reactions: Although uncommon, rash or pruritus may signal a hypersensitivity reaction. Discontinue the medication and seek immediate care if a widespread rash develops.

Patients should contact their clinician promptly if they experience persistent nausea, worsening headache, or any signs of kidney dysfunction (e.g., reduced urine output, swelling).

Buying Zovirax from Our Online Pharmacy

Why Choose Our Service?

Accessing antiviral medication in Singapore can be challenging for patients without a local prescription or those seeking affordable generics. Our online pharmacy bridges that gap, offering a discreet, secure platform where qualified prescribers verify eligibility before dispensing Zovirax.

Quality & Safety

We partner with licensed international pharmacies that adhere to WHO-GMP standards, ensuring every tablet meets rigorous potency and purity specifications. All shipments are routed through regulated logistics partners, providing traceability from manufacturer to doorstep.

Pricing & Access

Generic Zovirax tablets are priced competitively, often 30 % lower than brand-name equivalents. For patients on long-term regimens, we offer a Lifetime 10 % discount on all reorders, helping to sustain treatment adherence without financial strain.

Discreet Delivery

Orders are packaged in unbranded, tamper-evident envelopes. Express shipping typically arrives within 7 days, while standard delivery reaches most Singapore addresses within 3 weeks, all with full privacy protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What should I do if I forget a dose of Zovirax? If it’s less than four hours late, take it immediately; otherwise skip and continue with the next scheduled dose. Doubling up can increase toxicity risk.

  • Can Zovirax be taken with other medications? Acyclovir has minimal drug-drug interactions, but concurrent use of nephrotoxic agents (e.g., NSAIDs, certain antibiotics) may heighten renal strain. Discuss all current medicines with your prescriber.

  • Is Zovirax safe for people with chronic kidney disease? Yes, but dose adjustments are required based on creatinine clearance. Your healthcare provider will calculate the appropriate regimen to avoid accumulation.

  • How quickly will symptoms improve after starting Zovirax? Most patients notice reduced pain and lesion progression within 24-48 hours, with complete healing typically occurring in 7-10 days for HSV and 10-14 days for shingles.

  • Why does my doctor sometimes prescribe a higher dose (800 mg) than the standard 400 mg? Higher doses achieve greater plasma concentrations, which are necessary for severe or disseminated infections, such as extensive shingles or immunocompromised HSV outbreaks.

  • Can I buy Zovirax without a prescription through your platform? All orders require verification by a licensed prescriber to comply with Singapore’s regulatory framework. This ensures safe, appropriate use of the antiviral.

  • How does Zovirax compare to valacyclovir in terms of side effects? Both drugs share similar safety profiles, but valacyclovir’s higher bioavailability often allows less frequent dosing, which some patients find more convenient. Zovirax remains a cost-effective alternative with comparable efficacy.

  • Is it necessary to complete the full course even if lesions heal early? Yes. Stopping treatment prematurely can allow residual virus to replicate, increasing the risk of recurrence or resistance.

  • Will Zovirax protect my partner from catching HSV? While antiviral therapy reduces viral shedding, it does not eliminate transmission risk entirely. Consistent condom use and avoidance of sexual activity during active lesions are recommended.

  • Can Zovirax be used for cold sores? Absolutely. For recurrent oral herpes, a typical regimen is 200 mg five times daily for five days, which shortens lesion duration and pain.

  • What is the difference between Zovirax tablets and the topical cream? Oral tablets provide systemic viral suppression, useful for extensive or recurrent infections, whereas the cream acts locally and is best for isolated lesions. Often, clinicians combine both for optimal outcomes.

Glossary

Nucleoside analogue
A synthetic compound that mimics natural nucleosides, allowing it to be incorporated into viral DNA and disrupt replication.
Thymidine kinase
An enzyme produced by herpes viruses that phosphorylates acyclovir, initiating its activation inside infected cells.
Bioavailability
The proportion of an administered drug that reaches systemic circulation in an active form; higher bioavailability means fewer tablets are needed to achieve therapeutic levels.
Renal clearance
The process by which the kidneys filter and eliminate substances from the blood; drugs cleared renally require dose adjustments in impaired kidney function.
Chain termination
A mechanism whereby a nucleotide analogue lacks the necessary chemical group to form the next phosphodiester bond, halting DNA chain elongation.

Disclaimer

The information provided about Zovirax is intended for general educational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical consultation. All treatment choices, including any off-label applications, should be made under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. Readers are presumed to be responsible adults capable of making informed health decisions. Our online pharmacy offers a convenient access solution for individuals who may encounter limited availability, insurance restrictions, or cost barriers to obtaining Zovirax. Always consult your doctor before initiating, modifying, or discontinuing any medication.

External Resources about Zovirax


Information Prepared By

Nawin Kittisak
Vikneswaran V Paranjothy